HiFiMAN HE-400SE

Our take

"A hi-fi "modern classic"! One of the most affordable planar magnetic headphones on the market. You get the low distortion and fast transients typical of a technology HiFiMAN has mastered for years." - Victor Malvolti

Open-back planar magnetic hi-fi headphones

The HiFiMAN HE-400SE is the most affordable way into planar magnetic (orthodynamic) headphones, the technology HiFiMAN built its reputation on. This SE version is the latest iteration of the 400 series, a modern hi-fi best-seller: a light, comfortable open-back over-ear headphone designed for music listening at home as well as reference use at the desk.

Why planar magnetic headphones?

In a conventional dynamic driver, the voice coil only drives a small area of the diaphragm, and the rest follows with a delay, which creates distortion. In a planar driver, the conductor is spread over almost the whole surface of a very thin diaphragm, driven evenly between two rows of magnets. The result: much lower distortion, sharper transients and tighter bass.

Stealth Magnet design

The SE version of the 400 series uses HiFiMAN's Stealth Magnets. Their specific shape makes them acoustically more transparent: the sound wave passes through the magnetic structure with less turbulence, which further reduces distortion.

Comfort and build

The adjustable headband makes the HE-400SE more comfortable than its predecessor, and it stays pleasant over long sessions, even in warm weather. A new frame protects the drivers and makes the headphone more durable. The cable is detachable, with a 3.5 mm connection on each side.

Which amplifier?

With 91 dB sensitivity, the HE-400SE works from a decent headphone output, but it gains noticeably in dynamics and bass control with a dedicated amp. For a coherent, highly transparent setup, we recommend it with the JDS Labs Atom Amp 2 paired with the JDS Labs Atom DAC 2, or with the JDS Labs Element IV DAC/amp combo.

Specifications

• Type: open-back over-ear, planar magnetic
• Magnets: Stealth Magnet
• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Impedance: 25 ohms
• Sensitivity: 91 dB
• Weight: 390 g
• Cable: detachable, dual 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm adapter included

See also the HiFiMAN Sundara, a step up in diaphragm finesse and build quality.

Watch it on our Instagram: HiFiMAN HE-400SE at Cool Kids Audio.